At the start of an evening shift on a cardiac unit, a licensed practical nurse brings the nurse a list of client reports. Which of the following client reports should the nurse assess first?
Constipation
Indigestion
Swollen ankles
Urinary frequency
None
None
The Correct Answer is B
A. Constipation: While constipation can be uncomfortable, it is not typically considered an immediate threat to a patient's health in a cardiac unit setting. It requires assessment and intervention but is not the highest priority.
B. Indigestion can be a subtle symptom of myocardial infarction (MI) or acute coronary syndrome (ACS), particularly in older adults, women, or clients with diabetes. Clients experiencing "indigestion" may be describing chest discomfort, which requires immediate assessment to rule out a cardiac event. Early identification and intervention for cardiac symptoms are critical to prevent further complications.
C. Swollen ankles can indicate fluid retention, which is a common sign of heart failure. While this symptom requires attention, it does not typically indicate an immediate life-threatening issue compared to potential cardiac ischemia associated with "indigestion."
D. Urinary frequency: This could be related to medications or other conditions. While it should be addressed, it is not the most critical issue compared to potential acute cardiac symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Limit each of the client's visitors to 1 hr per day. - This is not necessary specifically due to the presence of the radiation implant. Visitation restrictions should be based on hospital policy and
the client's condition, not solely on the presence of a radiation implant.
B. Remove dirty linens from the room after double bagging. - This is a standard infection control measure and is not specific to caring for a client with a radiation implant.
C. Wear a dosimeter film badge while in the client's room. - Healthcare workers who care for clients with sealed radiation implants should wear dosimeter film badges to monitor their radiation exposure levels.
D. Ensure family members remain at least 1 m (3.2 feet) from the client. - While limiting exposure to radiation is important, maintaining distance alone may not provide adequate
protection. Healthcare workers should follow appropriate safety precautions and use shielding as necessary when caring for clients with radiation implants.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Instilling erythromycin ophthalmic ointment in the newborn's eyes is important to prevent neonatal conjunctivitis, but drying the newborn takes precedence to prevent heat loss and stimulate breathing immediately after birth.
B. Weighing the newborn and placing identification bracelets can be done after drying the newborn.
C. Placing identification bracelets on the newborn is important for identification purposes but does not take precedence over drying the newborn to prevent heat loss and stimulate breathing.
D. Dry the newborn: Drying the newborn is the priority immediately after birth to prevent heat
loss and stimulate breathing. The newborn is wet from amniotic fluid and may be cold due to the temperature difference between the intrauterine and extrauterine environment. Drying the newborn with a warm, soft towel helps to prevent hypothermia and promotes the initiation of breathing, which is essential for oxygenation and lung expansion. This action supports the
newborn's transition to extrauterine life and sets the stage for subsequent assessments and interventions.
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